Coexisting gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary tract anomalies in omphalocele and gastroschisis: A twenty-year experience in a single tertiary medical center.

BACKGROUND

Omphalocele and gastroschisis are the two most common congenital abdominal wall defects; however, no previous study has focused on gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary tract malformations in these two conditions. This study aimed to investigate the demographic characteristics, coexisting congenital gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary tract anomalies, hospital course, and outcomes of patients with gastroschisis and omphalocele.

METHODS

This is retrospective chart review of all patients admitted to one tertiary medical center in Taiwan between January 1, 2000 and June 30, 2020 with a diagnosis of gastroschisis or omphalocele. The medical records were reviewed to obtain demographic data regarding coexisting gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary tract anomalies and outcomes.

RESULTS

Of the 51 patients included, 21 had gastroschisis and 30 had omphalocele. Gastroschisis was associated with a significantly younger maternal age and a higher incidence of small for gestational age. Of the 30 patients with omphalocele, twelve had associated gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary anomalies. Seven of the 21 patients with gastroschisis had gastrointestinal anomalies, and none had hepatobiliary anomalies. Among the omphalocele patients, three (10%) had documented malrotation, and one developed midgut volvulus. Among gastroschisis patients, four patients (19%) had malrotation, and two developed midgut volvulus. There were no statistically significant differences in postoperative complications or mortality rates between those with and without gastrointestinal/hepatobiliary tract anomalies.

CONCLUSION

The diversity of coexisting gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary tract anomalies is higher in the omphalocele than in gastroschisis. In addition, we demonstrate that patients with gastroschisis or omphalocele have a higher rate of intestinal malrotation and midgut volvulus.